Windows 10 UI overhaul

As part of the Sun Valley update, Windows 10 is in the process of getting a new interface with Windows 10X-like Action Center and rounded corners. The Sun Valley update is also known as ‘Windows 10++’ internally and it will deliver a sweeping visual rejuvenation of Windows experience.

In the preview builds, Microsoft appears to be testing a prototype for a new flag that will “smooth out the corners” of ‘windows’, which includes the Start Menu and UWP apps.

The flag is titled “RoundedWindowCornersPrototype” and it will get rid of the sharp edges to deliver the highly-anticipated aesthetic look of Windows 10.

The rounded corner change is going to be very subtle and it will only apply to the modern areas. In other words, Start Menu, inbox apps, Action Center, Settings app, and other modern areas will respect the Windows 7 or macOS-like rounded corners.

Windows 10 round cornersThe subtle changes would be noticeable and give the interface a more modern appearance that blends in better with other operating systems.

It’s also worth noting that Microsoft has used rounded corners up until Windows 8, when the Metro interface with sharp edges took over.

Of course, we can’t be sure that it will happen, but the new references spotted in the build suggests that Microsoft is still considering this design change.

Windows 10 redesign rumours

The reports of Windows 10 redesign first emerged when Panos Panay became the new head of both Windows client and hardware at Microsoft. Panos Panay has promised that the company will invest more in Windows 10 and accelerate innovation to ensure that Windows is considered the best OS.

It’s also likely that the design work that Microsoft has been doing on Windows 10X will also benefit Windows 10. For example, Microsoft appears to be testing a new Action Center that takes design clues from Windows 10X.

Reports have suggested that the Windows 10 redesign will be unfolded with version 21H2 update in the fall of 2021.

About The Author

Mayank Parmar

Mayank Parmar is an entrepreneur who founded Windows Latest. He is the Editor-in-Chief and has written on various topics in his seven years of career, but he is mostly known for his well-researched work on Microsoft's Windows. His articles and research works have been referred to by CNN, Business Insiders, Forbes, Fortune, CBS Interactive, Microsoft and many others over the years.